Overview
Oxalis hirta L. var. intermedia T.M.Salter is a plant belonging to the Oxalidaceae family. This plant has a variety of common names, including hairy wood sorrel, pink wood sorrel, and Indian wood sorrel.
Origin
Oxalis hirta L. var. intermedia T.M.Salter is native to South America and can be found in countries such as Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay. It has also been introduced to other regions of the world, such as the United States and Europe.
Appearance
Oxalis hirta L. var. intermedia T.M.Salter is a small plant, usually growing only a few inches tall. It has pink or white flowers and a three-lobed leaf pattern. This plant is characterized by the fine, hair-like structures that cover its leaves and stems. It has a distinct sour taste and smell.
Uses
Oxalis hirta L. var. intermedia T.M.Salter has several traditional uses. In South America, the leaves are used to treat a range of ailments, including diarrhea, mouth sores, and throat infections. In other parts of the world, the leaves are used in salads or as a garnish. However, it is important to note that eating large amounts of the plant can be harmful due to its oxalic acid content, which can lead to kidney stones.
Light Requirements
Oxalis hirta L. var. intermedia T.M.Salter requires moderate to bright indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves of the plant, so it's best to place it near a window that filters the light. A window with a northern exposure is ideal, but an eastern or western exposure can also work well. If grown under low light conditions, the plant may become leggy and produce fewer flowers.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for growing Oxalis hirta L. var. intermedia T.M.Salter is between 60°F and 75°F (15.5°C to 23.8°C). The plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C) but should not be exposed to frost. High temperatures above 80°F (26.6°C) can cause the plant to wilt or lose leaves. Growers should avoid placing the plant near heaters or air conditioning vents that may create extreme temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Oxalis hirta L. var. intermedia T.M.Salter prefers well-draining, moderately rich soil that is slightly acidic. Gardeners can create their own soil mix by combining equal parts of potting soil, peat moss, and perlite or vermiculite. The pH of the soil should be between 5.5 and 6.5. The plant should be kept consistently moist but should never be allowed to sit in standing water. Over-watering can cause the roots to rot and may lead to the death of the plant.
Cultivation methods
Oxalis hirta L. var. intermedia T.M.Salter is an easy-to-grow plant that prefers well-drained soils and partial shade. The plant can either be propagated from seeds or cuttings. To grow Oxalis hirta L. var. intermedia T.M.Salter from cuttings, take 2-inch-long cuttings from the tips of the plant's stems, remove the lower leaves, and plant the cuttings in soil that is kept moist until rooted. To grow it from seed, plant the seeds in well-draining soil and keep them moist until they germinate.
Watering needs
The Oxalis hirta L. var. intermedia T.M.Salter plant requires moderate watering. It is important to water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch. However, it is essential not to overwater because excessive moisture can lead to root rot. During the summer, when the plant is in its growth phase, it would be helpful to water the plant more frequently.
Fertilization
Feed Oxalis hirta L. var. intermedia T.M.Salter with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Fertilizing the plant will help encourage growth and flowering. However, avoid fertilizing the plant during the winter when it is dormant.
Pruning
Pruning the Oxalis hirta L. var. intermedia T.M.Salter plant is an essential maintenance practice. The plant may become leggy and untidy with time, so it is necessary to trim back its stems once or twice a year. When trimming, leave a few leaves on each stem to prevent shocking the plant. Pruning will help the plant to maintain a compact and neat form.
Propagation of Oxalis hirta L. var. intermedia T.M.Salter
Oxalis hirta L. var. intermedia T.M.Salter, commonly known as hairy woodsorrel, is a perennial plant species that belongs to the family Oxalidaceae. It is native to North America and can be found in woodlands, meadows, and prairies. The plant has trifoliate leaves that are green and hairy, and it produces yellow flowers from May to August.
Propagation of Oxalis hirta L. var. intermedia T.M.Salter can be achieved through seeds, stem cuttings, and division of the rhizomes.
Seeds Propagation
To propagate Oxalis hirta L. var. intermedia T.M.Salter from seeds, collect mature seeds in the fall when the pod has dried and opened. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mixture in the spring. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and keep the container in a warm and bright area. Water regularly to keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes two to four weeks.
Stem Cuttings Propagation
Propagation of Oxalis hirta L. var. intermedia T.M.Salter through stem cuttings can be done in the spring or summer. Choose a healthy stem and cut it just below a node. Remove the lower leaves to leave a stem of about 2-3 inches. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone and plant it into a well-draining soil mixture. Keep the soil moist and place the container in a warm and bright area. After about four weeks, the stem should develop roots and new growth.
Rhizome Division
In the fall or winter, when the plant is dormant, lift the plant gently from the soil and separate the rhizomes. Cut the rhizomes into sections, making sure each section has at least one healthy growing point. Plant the sections into a well-draining soil mixture and keep the soil moist. The new plants should emerge in the spring.
Regardless of the propagation method you choose, it's essential to provide proper care to the young plants until they become established. Ensure that they receive enough light, water, and nutrients for optimal growth.
Disease and Pest Management for Oxalis Hirta L. Var. Intermedia T.M.Salter
Oxalis hirta L. var. intermedia T.M.Salter, commonly known as hairy wood sorrel, is susceptible to a variety of diseases and pests. Proper management is necessary to maintain the plant's health and productivity.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect the Oxalis hirta L. var. intermedia is the bacterial disease known as soft rot. This disease is caused by Erwinia carotovora and Pectobacterium carotovorum. The symptoms of soft rot include wilting, yellowing, or browning of the leaves. The affected plant parts become mushy, and a foul odor emanates from them. To manage this disease, it is essential to improve sanitation by removing and destroying affected plant parts. Avoid overwatering to minimize the chances of infection. Additionally, disinfect any garden tools used in the affected area to prevent the spread of the bacteria.
Fusarium wilt is another common disease that affects Oxalis hirta L. var. intermedia. This disease is caused by the Fusarium oxysporum fungus. It causes the leaves to wilt and yellow, and the plant to die back. The fungus can survive in the soil for many years, making it essential to rotate crops to non-susceptible plants. Fungicides can also help to control this disease.
Common Pests
One of the most common pests that affect Oxalis hirta L. var. intermedia is the spider mites. These tiny pests suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and then brown. Damage from spider mites can also lead to the stunting of the plant. To manage spider mites, it is essential to ensure proper irrigation and fertilization, as these pests thrive in dry and dusty conditions. Additionally, beneficial insects like ladybugs can help to control spider mites' populations.
Aphids are another common pest that affects Oxalis hirta L. var. intermedia. These small insects suck the sap from the plant, causing the leaves to curl and turn yellow. They also excrete a sugary substance known as honeydew, which attracts ants. One way to manage aphids is to use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Using a strong stream of water to wash the leaves also helps to reduce the aphid population.
In conclusion, managing diseases and pests is crucial to maintain the health and productivity of Oxalis hirta L. var. intermedia. Using proper sanitation, rotating crops, and employing biological controls can help to minimize the spread of plant diseases and pests.
